Outlaws – Ghost Riders in the Sky

I’ve always liked this song, this version in particular.
Over the years I have listened to numerous covers of the song and this one stands out to me.
The song was originally written in 1948 by Stan Jones.

The first release of this song was done by none other then Burl Ives.
Through the years the song has been covered by Bing Cosby, Peggy Lee, Gene Autry, and yes even Johnny Cash among may others.

Being a fan of Rock & Roll and especially Southern Rock the version done by The Outlaws is by far my favorite.
It has to be the thundering guitar riffs.

Outlaws – Ghost Riders in the Sky

An old cowpoke went ridin’ out
one dark and windy day
Upon a ridge he rested
as he went along his way
When all at once a mighty herd
of red eyed steers he saw
A plowin’ through the ragged skies
and up a cloudy draw

Yippie I Ay, Yippie I Oh
Ghost herd in the sky

Their brands were still on fire
and their hooves were made of steel
Their horns were black and shiny
and their hot breath he could feel
A bolt of fear went through him
as they thundered through the sky
He saw the riders coming hard
and he heard their mournful cry

Yippie I Ay, Yippie I Oh
Ghost riders in the sky

Their faces gaunt their eyes were blurred
and shirts all soaked with sweat
They’re ridin’ hard to catch that herd
but they ‘aint caught ’em yet
‘Cause they’ve got to ride forever
in the range up in the sky
On horses snorting fire
as they ride on hear their cry

Yippie I Ay, Yippie I Oh
Ghost riders in the sky

The riders ‘loped on by him
he heard one call his name
If you want to save your soul
from hell a riding on our range
then cowboy change your ways today
or with us you will ride
on Tryin’ to catch the devil’s herd
across these endless skies